The U.S Department of Energy seeks to provide support for regionally-diverse Advanced Technology Demonstration Projects through collaborative partnerships. By providing funding, technical assistance, and government coordination to accelerate deployment of these demonstration projects, DOE can help eliminate uncertainties, mitigate risks, and help create a robust U.S. Offshore Wind Energy Industry.
The primary goals of the Advanced Technology Demonstration Projects are to:
1. Install innovative offshore wind systems in U.S. waters in the most rapid and responsible manner possible, and
2. Expedite the development and deployment of innovative offshore wind energy systems with a credible potential for lowering the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) below 10 ¢/kWh or the local "hurdle" price at which offshore wind can compete with other regional generation sources without subsidies.
With over 4,000 GW of gross potential that is relatively close to key load centers, offshore wind energy can help the nation reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, diversify its energy supply, provide cost-competitive electricity to key coastal regions, and stimulate economic revitalization of key sectors of the economy. However, if the nation is to realize these benefits, key challenges to the development and deployment of offshore wind technology must be overcome, including the relatively high current cost of energy, technical challenges surrounding installation and grid interconnection, and the untested permitting or approval processes. DOE seeks technology demonstration projects that combine innovation with pathways for substantial cost reduction opportunities.